 This week, politicians from more than 140 countries, legal and military experts, NGOs, and representatives from leading international organizations, including the OSCE, are meeting in London for a landmark summit on ending sexual violence in conflict organized by the British Government.
Throughout history and to this day, women, men, boys and girls all over the world have suffered the horrific consequences of sexual violence in conflict. This abhorrent crime has long-term consequences for the victims and communities. It’s time to recognize that sexual violence cannot be seen as an inevitable part of conflict. It’s time to challenge the impunity.
The OSCE works in all stages of the conflict cycle. In post-conflict environments we support victims in the search for justice, and we are working with the armed forces to ensure they respect the rights and dignity of both women and men, with the aim of ending once and for all the use of rape and sexual violence as a weapon of war.
Miroslava Beham
OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues
|
Security Community Magazine